First of all, no matter what anyone says, go Canon. For the mid priced consumer end camera's you'll find nothing better than a Canon. You will find other camera's from other manufacturers that are good, but other companies are always so hit-and-miss with their cameras. Canon is always on the mark with clear, balanced color, and clarity. Probaby for what you're requirements are, I would recommend the Powershot S1 IS:
http://www.steves-digicams.com/2004_reviews/s1is.html
It has a 10x Optical zoom. The one advantage with going with a canon camera with a long focal length like this is having Canon optics. This camera has little barrel distortion and pin cushioning.
It also includes the Digic II processor which is by part, the best image processor in this industry. The nice this about this camera is the pull out LCD screen which canon originally brought out with its higher priced G series camera's about 6 years ago. It's great for taking shots that are really low or really high up as you can adjust the screen to view what you're shooting better.
This camera also has an image stabilizer which helps with shooting in low light conditions. Also, the video mode is excellent on this unit having the ability to take up to 1 hour of consecutive video.
Great camera. Highly recommended. If for some reason this doesn't fit your needs, PM and I'll recommend something else. I used to sell cameras and this was one of our best sellers. 3.2 MP will allow you print up to and 8X10 with minimal moire on detailed shots.